LifesaverReady

Ben- It definitely doesn't shorten your lifespan (believe me I checked before I signed up too!). It's been such an amazing experience from start to finish.

Hi Team-CCP, I would recommend contacting whichever company you're registered with to make sure you're details are up to date so that they can get in contact with you if they need you. For me it took approx 4 years to be a match for someone, but I know some people who have been on a register for decades and not been contacted. I suppose the most important part is ensuring that if you are a match - they can tell you! :) - Nathan

Hi ghitzabomba, I donated last year and I became a donor several years ago when I was at an event they were holding. After being told I was a possible match for someone I had to get some bloods taken to check I was compatible with them - and then shortly after (several weeks), I travelled down to London (I'm from Newcastle). Once for a medical exam to check I am okay to donate and then again a week later to donate. The donation was simple and just involved my stem cells being taken out of my blood via PBSC (using a machine similar to a dialysis machine). - Nathan

alex: I don't know who I have donated to or know much about them but they send me anonymous cards thanking me

Ben - I donated via bone marrow and I had no pain at all. If anything I'd say it's easier than the PBSC because I was under anaesthetic for the whole time! I woke up and felt a little bit stiff and sore but when you think of what's been achieved by doing it, it's a no brainer. I'd really encourage anyone who's able to, to sign up and get on the register. www.anthonynolan.org/reddit